NORFOLK, Va. — State data reveals a syndrome known as "sudden unexpected infant death" or SUID is on the rise in Virginia.
It's a health emergency that causes a baby under the age of one to die for no explained reason. CHKD is working to help families know the signs and symptoms.
The Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD) is a gold-certified safe sleep hospital by "Cribs for Kids" and the staff works to ensure babies in the hospital and community have the safest sleep environments.
This certification is the highest certification a hospital can receive and must be done every five years.
"Making sure that we are preparing them for safe sleep when they go home," explained Cristi Herrera, a nurse educator at CHKD.
"There are guidelines that we know save lives and that's why we are so passionate about it,” added physician Rianna Leazer.
The Virginia Department of Health reports that in 2022, nearly 147 babies in Eastern Virginia died from SUID. That number is higher than the numbers in the rest of the state and includes children from one month old to 1 year of age.
Officials want to see that rate lowered.
"So, we're really just focusing on as much education and community information as we can get out there," Herrera said.
Experts say parents should follow the ABCs of safe sleep:
- the baby should be Alone
- on their Back
- and inside the Crib.
According to safe sleep regulations, a child should have a firm sleep surface and the child should be in loose-fitting clothes.
"So, anything else that's in their crib should be out. That means bumpers, any quilts or blankets, any toys anything else that is on the baby as a wearable blanket," said Leazer.
In October and November, every CHKD location will have a safe sleep table. Families can learn more about training and options to ensure their child has access to a safe sleep space.
"You might hear from a caring grandma or aunt that used to do it a certain way. But we have good research and knowledge now,” Herrera explained.